The federal government is set to receive the first group of 268 Nigerians evacuated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals in the country.
The returnees are expected to arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, at about 5:00 a.m. on Thursday aboard an Air Peace flight.
Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, will lead the reception for the evacuees.
They will be accompanied by Nigeria’s Acting High Commissioner in Pretoria, Ambassador Alexander Ajayi, who is escorting the group back home.
In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the reception reflects the federal government’s determination to safeguard the interests and welfare of Nigerians living abroad.
According to the ministry, the evacuation exercise aligns with the government’s citizen-focused foreign policy, which prioritises the protection and well-being of Nigerians regardless of their location.
The ministry also disclosed that the screening process for Nigerians in South Africa seeking voluntary repatriation has been extended until Sunday, June 14, to allow more affected individuals to register and benefit from the programme.
Officials said the extension was granted to ensure that all eligible Nigerians wishing to return home due to the attacks have sufficient time to complete the necessary procedures.
The federal government further assured that comprehensive arrangements have been put in place to facilitate the returnees’ reintegration.
These include reception, documentation and other support services that will be provided immediately upon arrival in Lagos.
The evacuation comes amid growing concerns over xenophobic violence in South Africa, which has affected several foreign nationals, including Nigerians.
